Description
This Crockpot Pork Tenderloin recipe offers a simple, hands-off method to prepare tender, flavorful pork using a slow cooker. A perfectly balanced spice rub with brown sugar, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning infuses the tenderloins, while beef broth and butter create a rich sauce. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish ensures juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pork medallions with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
Liquid
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Spice Rub
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Other
- 1/4 cup butter (cut into pats)
- Chopped parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Trim the Pork Tenderloins: Carefully trim off any excess fat and the silver skin from the pork tenderloins to ensure a tender and enjoyable texture.
- Add Broth to Slow Cooker: Pour 1/2 cup of beef broth into the slow cooker to provide moisture and richness during cooking.
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat each pork tenderloin thoroughly with this spice blend using your hands.
- Place Pork in Slow Cooker: Put the seasoned pork tenderloins into the slow cooker along with any remaining spice rub from the plate. Scatter the butter pats on top and around the meat, then cover with the lid.
- Cook and Check Doneness: Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1 hour. Since slow cooker times may vary, start checking the internal temperature after the initial cooking time. The target temperature is 145°F–150°F for medium doneness. If needed, continue cooking in 5-10 minute increments until ready.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into medallions, optionally toss in the cooking sauce or spoon sauce over the slices, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model and size of tenderloins.
- Using a meat thermometer is recommended to avoid overcooking the pork.
- Resting the meat allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
- You can save the cooking liquid to use as a sauce or gravy base.
- For larger tenderloins, expect longer cooking times.
